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Concrete Massing with Pixelated Terraces and Acoustic Barriers for Urban Living

Authors:
Anna Armentani, Stefano Eger, Giada Campigotto
Concrete Massing with Pixelated Terraces and Acoustic Barriers for Urban Living
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A building featuring a concrete mass that serves as an acoustic barrier, interconnected with pixelated terraces, enhances urban living by merging privacy and community space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a four-module window system for enhanced air and light quality.
02
The structure utilizes concrete massing as a natural sound barrier to reduce urban noise.
03
Pixelated terraces create a unique blend of private and public spaces.
04
The project retrofits underutilized urban areas for increased housing density.
05
Acoustic considerations are central to the living environment, promoting well-being.

The Concrete Island is an architectural initiative that addresses the challenges of urban living through a thoughtful design approach. It focuses on enhancing community interaction and personal privacy within a dense metropolitan setting. The development serves as a residential area, introducing a new way to experience urban life while blending public and private realms.

Private Terraces and Public Integration

By creating private terraces within public spaces, the design aims to redefine boundaries in urban environments. These terraces provide a personal retreat for residents, offering comfort in a busy city. This layout encourages social interaction while maintaining a sense of ownership and seclusion. The project embodies a balance between community engagement and individual needs.

Window Configurations and Natural Ventilation

Another important feature of the design is the change in window configurations. The transition from single-module to four-module windows enhances the flow of natural light and air into living spaces. This approach not only improves visual comfort but also supports the overall health and well-being of residents. Access to fresh air and light is crucial in dense urban settings, making this aspect a significant consideration.

Silence Island and Acoustic Considerations

The design incorporates the notion of a “Silence Island,” where the building's mass functions as a barrier against outside noise. This thoughtful arrangement helps create a quieter living environment, essential for well-being in bustling cities. By mitigating urban sound, the design enhances the overall quality of life for its residents, making it a notable consideration.

Retrofitting Existing Urban Areas

The project actively explores the repurposing of underused urban spaces, such as traffic islands and roundabouts. Transforming these areas into residential opportunities exemplifies efficient land use. It reflects an innovative approach that allows for increased density while fostering a sense of community. This strategy enhances the potential of the urban landscape, making it more livable and accessible.

Concrete as a Defining Material

Concrete is a primary material used throughout the design, connecting it to the principles of brutalism. It serves both structural and aesthetic purposes. The choice of concrete helps to create a cohesive identity for the development. Its durability and texture resonate with the architectural themes of the past while addressing contemporary living needs.

The design places emphasis on large terraces that connect indoor and outdoor living. This feature invites residents to engage with nature and enhances the overall living experience in the Concrete Island.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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